British Values in Action

Promoting British Values at Longwick C of E Combined School, January 2025

Introduction

At Longwick C of E Combined School in Buckinghamshire, the promotion of British values is integral to the development of students both academically and personally. The school recognises the importance of preparing students for life in a modern, diverse society, where mutual respect, understanding, and personal responsibility are key to thriving in their communities and the wider world. British values such as democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs, are woven throughout the National Curriculum, collective worship, and the school’s overarching values of Respect, Responsibility, Perseverance, and Kindness.

British Values in the National Curriculum

Longwick C of E Combined School embeds British values across various subjects in the National Curriculum. The curriculum is designed not only to ensure academic excellence but also to nurture students into well-rounded individuals. Through history, geography, and citizenship lessons, children learn about the history and governance of the UK, its legal system, and the importance of social responsibility. These subjects help pupils understand the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and how they contribute to the shared life of society.

In RE and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education), pupils engage with themes of equality, diversity, and respect for all. These lessons support students in developing an understanding of different cultures, faiths, and lifestyles, reinforcing the importance of mutual respect, tolerance, and empathy. Through discussions and activities, children are encouraged to think critically about their roles in a diverse and interconnected world, both now and in the future.

Collective Worship and British Values

Collective worship is an important aspect of life at Longwick C of E Combined School, and it plays a key role in promoting British values. In weekly assemblies, children reflect on moral, spiritual, and ethical themes, linking values such as kindness, perseverance, and respect to real-life scenarios. These assemblies create a sense of community, where all students come together to celebrate shared values and engage in thoughtful discussions about their roles in society.

The school also takes inspiration from its Christian foundation, encouraging students to live out the teachings of the Christian faith by embracing the virtues of kindness, respect, and compassion. These values align closely with British values, ensuring that pupils understand these principles and integrate them into their daily lives as Longwick Leaners.

School Values: Respect, Responsibility, Perseverance, and Kindness

At Longwick C of E Combined School, the core values of Respect, Responsibility, Perseverance, and Kindness are fundamental to the school culture. These values are not simply words but are actively promoted through every aspect of school life:

• Respect: Students are encouraged to treat others with dignity and fairness, irrespective of differences in culture, faith, or background. This aligns with the British values of mutual respect and tolerance, preparing students for life in a diverse society.
• Responsibility: Students are taught the importance of taking responsibility for their actions, both within school and in the wider community. The concept of individual liberty is reinforced, showing pupils that they have the power to make choices and that these choices carry consequences.
• Perseverance: Students are encouraged to persist in the face of challenges, developing resilience and determination. This is linked to the idea of the rule of law, where perseverance is needed to respect and uphold rules, even when faced with difficulties.
• Kindness: A key value at Longwick C of E, kindness is emphasized as a crucial aspect of all interactions, reinforcing British values of compassion and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to show kindness to one another and to the wider community.

These values form the foundation for everything the school does, from daily interactions between staff and students to the teaching of national curriculum subjects.

Student Leadership and the Role of the School Councillors

An important way that Longwick C of E Combined School actively promotes British values is through its student leadership system. Each year, the school elects a group of school councillors, selected by their peers. This process gives students the opportunity to experience democracy in action and understand the value of having a voice in decision-making. The councillors hold weekly meetings with Mrs Wakefield to discuss issues, plan initiatives, and reflect on how they can improve the school experience for everyone.

By being involved in school leadership, these students develop their own leadership skills and become role models for their peers, demonstrating the values of respect, responsibility, and active participation. They are encouraged to approach their roles with integrity and commitment, helping to ensure that everyone’s views are heard and that their actions contribute positively to the school environment.

Eco Council and Environmental Responsibility

The school also strongly emphasises environmental responsibility through its Eco Council. Students who are part of this council are tasked with promoting sustainability within the school and the broader community, embodying the value of responsibility. The Eco Council works on various initiatives, including recycling, energy conservation, and raising awareness of environmental issues.

A key achievement for Longwick C of E was earning the Green Flag award in the summer of 2024, recognising schools for their commitment to environmental education and sustainability. This award was attained through the collective efforts of the students, staff, and community, and is a proud reflection of the school's commitment to fostering responsible citizenship.

In addition, the school participates in the ODBST (Oxford Diocese Board of Schools Trust) annual Eco Summit, which brings together pupils and teachers from across the trust to share ideas and collaborate on eco-friendly initiatives. This involvement allows Longwick students to engage with like-minded peers, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship and their role in protecting the planet for future generations.

Bringing the Community Together

Longwick C of E Combined School recognises the importance of fostering a strong sense of community, where every member is valued and supported. Events such as class assemblies, school performances, charity events, and community days all contribute to building an inclusive and positive school environment. These activities bring together pupils, staff, parents, and local community members to celebrate the school’s values and to build relationships of mutual respect.

Longwick Learners are encouraged to participate in local events, take part in community service, and engage in activities that promote the wider community’s well-being. By doing so, pupils not only reinforce their own British values but also develop a deeper understanding of the importance of contributing to society.

Preparing for a Diverse World: Secondary School and Beyond

Longwick C of E Combined School places great emphasis on preparing its students for life beyond primary school, both at secondary school and in the wider world. The school’s commitment to British values ensures that pupils leave with a strong sense of personal identity, respect for others, and the ability to engage meaningfully in a diverse and global society.

Through promoting communication skills, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, the school aims to equip its students with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world. By developing their understanding of British values and social responsibility, students are better prepared for life in secondary school and beyond, where they will continue to encounter new ideas, people, and experiences.